AS6081 Fraudulent/Counterfeit Electronic Parts: Avoidance, Detection, Mitigation, and Disposition – Distributors
Understanding AS6081: Combating Counterfeit Parts in Aerospace
The aerospace industry sets the gold standard for safety and technological advancement but faces ongoing challenges in safeguarding its supply chain. Counterfeit electrical, electronic, and electromechanical (EEE) components undermine the safety, reliability, and performance of aerospace systems.
AS6081, titled “Fraudulent/Counterfeit Electronic Parts: Avoidance, Detection, Mitigation, and Disposition – Distributors,” emerges as a critical standard for aerospace distributors. It’s designed to prevent, detect, and mitigate the risks of counterfeit electronic parts, ensuring the highest levels of quality and integrity. Aero Quality Solutions leads in upholding these standards, vital for aerospace quality management.
The Importance of AS6081 in Aerospace Safety and Reliability
AS6081 transcends a mere standard; it’s an essential defence against vulnerabilities in the aerospace supply chain. Implementing AS6081 equips businesses to tackle the challenges of counterfeit parts, securing reliability and safety in critical applications.
AS6081 Explained: What It Encompasses
AS6081’s scope is extensive, applying to organisations and electronic parts within the aerospace and defence sectors. It focuses on:
- Supplier Management
- Procurement and Purchasing Controls
- Inspection and Testing
- Comprehensive Risk Mitigation
- Control of Counterfeit Parts and Traceability
- Training and Awareness
- Reporting and Whistleblowing
- Continuous Improvement
- Collaboration and Information Sharing
AS6081 Certification: Essential for Which Organisations?
- Electronic Parts Distributors: The main focus of AS 6081 is on distributors of electronic parts, especially those that supply components to the aerospace and defence industries, including independents without OCM ties.
- Aerospace Manufacturers: Indirectly affected; require compliant distributors for components.
- Defence Contractors: Similar impact as manufacturers; mandate AS6081 compliance for suppliers.
- Regulatory Bodies and Government Agencies: May require AS6081 compliance for aerospace/defence contractors and suppliers.
Common Electronic Systems and Parts Prone to Counterfeiting
AS6081 plays a pivotal role in safeguarding a wide array of aerospace components from counterfeiting, ensuring they meet rigorous safety and reliability standards. Key systems and parts at risk include:
- Avionics Systems
- Engine Control Units (ECUs)
- Power Distribution Systems
- Sensors and Transducers
- Lighting Systems
- Flight Instrumentation
- On-board Computers and Processors
- Fuel Management Systems
- Emergency Systems
- Environmental Control Systems
These components are fundamental to aircraft functionality and safety. AS6081 certification ensures that all electronic parts used in these systems are genuine, thus preserving the integrity and reliability of aerospace operations.
AS6081 Compliance Requirements
Compliance with AS6081 involves adhering to specific requirements that ensure the integrity of electronic parts in the supply chain. These include detailed documentation, processes, and procedures focusing on supplier management, procurement controls, counterfeit part mitigation, and more. Embracing these requirements instills a culture of quality and integrity, critical for maintaining the highest safety and performance standards in aerospace and defence.
How to Achieve AS6081 Certification and the Benefits
Achieving AS6081 certification signifies a company’s commitment to combating counterfeit parts. This process, aligning with AS9100 and AS9120 standards, involves a detailed assessment that enhances operational standards and global recognition. Benefits include:
- Global Recognition: Marking your company as a trusted aerospace supplier.
- Access to Large OEMs: Inclusion in databases like OASIS, essential for expanding industry reach.
- Improved Stakeholder Relationships: Demonstrating commitment to quality and reliability.
- Customer Satisfaction:Consistently meeting customer requirements with genuine products.
- Win More Business: Meeting procurement specifications that often mandate AS6081 certification.
Work With Aero Quality Solutions
AS6081 certification is more than compliance; it’s a commitment to aerospace safety and quality. By adopting AS6081, companies protect against counterfeits and become trusted industry partners. Let Aero Quality Solutions guide you through the AS6081 certification process. Our team of experts offers tailored solutions to ensure your business not only meets but exceeds the stringent requirements set forth by AS6081, positioning you as a leader in aerospace quality and safety.
Contact Aero Quality Solutions today and take the first step towards achieving excellence and recognition in the aerospace industry.
FAQs
What is AS6081?
AS6081 is a standard developed by SAE International, specifically designed to prevent counterfeit electronic parts from entering the aerospace supply chain. It outlines requirements for a comprehensive quality management system to ensure authenticity and reliability of electronic parts.
How do I get started with AS6081 certification?
To start with AS6081 certification, first familiarise yourself with the standard’s requirements. Then, conduct an internal audit of your current processes against AS6081 criteria. Engage with a certification body accredited to assess AS6081 compliance to guide you through the certification process, including necessary training, documentation, and system adjustments.
Alternatively speak to one of expert consultants at Aero Quality Solutions who can guide you through the process from start to finish. Get in touch here.
What costs are involved in obtaining AS6081 certification for a UK CEM, stockist, and distributor?
For contract electronics manufacturers, stockists and distributors of electronics parts, costs for obtaining AS6081 certification vary depending on the size of your business and the complexity of your operations. It includes fees for the certification body, potential consultancy, and internal costs related to preparing for certification.
How long does the AS6081 certification process take?
The certification process duration varies depending on the size of the organization and its current compliance level, but it generally takes several months from initial assessment to certification.
How UK SME can benefit from AS6081?
UK SMEs can benefit from AS6081 by enhancing their market competitiveness, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and reducing the risks associated with counterfeit electronic parts. This certification can open up new business opportunities, improve customer trust, and potentially lead to partnerships with larger aerospace and defence entities.
What is the difference between AS6081 and other quality standards like AS9120?
AS6081 specifically targets counterfeit electronic parts avoidance, whereas AS9120 is a broader quality management system standard for stockists and distributors of electronic components operating in the aerospace industry. Both complement each other, however, AS6801 provides further and more detailed requirements relating to the purchasing, traceability and testing of parts, particularly those bought from non-franchised sources.
AS6081 certification typically requires renewal every three years, with surveillance audits conducted annually usually alongside AS9120 to ensure ongoing compliance.
How can Aero Quality Solutions help with AS6081?
Our expert consultants can advise on creating quality management systems that adhere to AS6081 standards. Speak to our team today, to see how we can help.
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